GST Reform Catalyzes India's Textile Industry Expansion

The Indian government has announced a rationalisation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates for the textile sector, projecting a boost to exports and domestic market growth. The initiative seeks to reduce production costs and support job creation as the industry aspires to reach a USD 350 billion target by 2030.

A key aspect of the reform includes setting a 5 percent GST rate for readymade garments priced up to Rs 2,500 per piece, down from the previous Rs 1,000 threshold. This adjustment is poised to make affordable apparel more accessible, particularly benefiting middle-class and low-income households.

Significantly, the GST rate for fibres and yarns has been slashed from 18 percent and 12 percent to a uniform 5 percent, addressing the inverted duty structure. This change alleviates cost pressures and enhances cash flow in small and medium production units, positioning India as a competitive hub for synthetic textiles globally.

(With inputs from agencies.)